ONLY U.S. CAN HALT ISRAEL’S ATTACK ON RAFAH, SAYS ABBAS

Why in the news?

“Abbas urges U.S. to halt Israeli attack on Rafah in Gaza, warning of mass displacement; international appeals for restraint.”

About Israel’s Threats and Actions:

  • Israel has been threatening for weeks to conduct a full-scale assault on Rafah, citing its aim to eliminate Hamas’s remaining forces in the area.
  • Recent airstrikes by Israel on Rafah have heightened concerns and anticipation of an imminent attack.
  • Abbas emphasises that only the U.S. has the power to prevent Israel from launching the planned attack on Rafah.
  • He makes the plea during a special meeting of the World Economic Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, stressing the urgency of the situation.
source:wordpress
About Rafah Crossing:

  • Location: Rafah Crossing is situated at the southern tip of the Gaza Strip, home to 2.3 million people.
  • Borders: Positioned between Israel, Egypt, and the Mediterranean Sea.
  • Control: Egypt oversees operations at the crossing.
  • Humanitarian Aid: Vital route for humanitarian assistance from Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula to enter Gaza.
  • Alternatives: Limited to two other crossings – Erez with Israel in north Gaza, and Kerem Shalom, a commercial link between Israel and Southern Gaza.